Diwali Detox

Which organs are most affected by overindulgence?
Primarily, the liver and the intestines. The liver produces bile, which helps break down fat in the digestive system, and processes protein to make it safe. Excessive drinking and a high-protein diet impacts the liver by slowing down waste elimination, which causes toxins to accumulate in the body.

How is the damage done?
• Excessive alcohol dries and dehydrates the mucus lining of the intestines, and makes it vulnerable to damage.
• The oil content of an excessive quantity of fried foods tests the production of bile, which breaks down the components of oil and aids in digestion. If the bile cannot handle the excess consumption of oil, the remaining oil coats the intestine linings and impedes the process of nutrition.
• Mithais heavy in desi ghee slows down the colon movements, causes constipation and contributes towards gas build-up. This, too, causes toxins to accumulate.
• Excessive consumption of tea and coffee coat the intestinal lining and coagulates the blood, thereby slowing down the absorption of nutrients.

How can the toxins be flushed out?
To detoxify the liver, cut down protein and carbohydrate intake, which translates into a ban on cereals, non-veg food and alcohol. And go in for Vitamin C and Vitamin E-rich foods like oranges, berries, kiwifruit, peppers, dark green vegetables and wheatgerm, all of which help protect the liver from potentially damaging free radicals.

To cleanse the digestive tract, have a diet rich in fibre and water, which will speed waste elimination.

When should the detox programme be taken up?The detox diet needs to be followed for one day only. It can be scheduled for any day after Diwali, but should be a holiday, when you can take it easy, since rest aids the flow of toxins. An ayurvedic massage (abhayanga) and a steam bath can help. Don’t overdo things the next day, when you resume your normal diet.